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4 Reasons Azimut-Benetti is the Leading Mega Yacht Builder Globally

November 14, 2019 By FAQ Leave a Comment

Established fifty years ago in 1969 by Italian student-turned-entrepreneur Paolo Vitelli, Azimut began as a humble sailing boat charter service before evolving into one of the world’s most renowned boat builders. In 1984, Vitelli acquired the illustrious Benetti brand, which was originally founded in 1873. Thus Azimut-Benetti, as it is known today, was born.

Atlantis 45

The Azimut-Benetti group strives to do one thing: to build beautiful, reliable, and innovative boats. Powerboat Philippines distributor Europa Yachts, the exclusive dealer of Azimut yachts in the country, believes it is high time for Filipino boaters to get to know this brand better.

To that end, here are four reasons that account for Azimut-Benetti’s supremacy in the yachting world, and why it is worth paying attention to its mega-sized ambitions.

They are a multi-awarded boat builder whose reputation continues to grow internationally

Azimut-Benetti possesses many plum distinctions in the yachting world; one need only to drop the company’s name, and it is likely to elicit approbation from yachtsmen who are in the know. One such distinction is Azimut-Benetti’s top ranking as a mega yacht builder in Boat International magazine’s Global Order Book—a position they have held for almost two decades.

At the recently concluded Cannes Yachting Festival of 2019, Azimut-Benetti also clinched the following awards: “Best Interior Design” for the Atlantis 45 (in the category of boats measuring between 45 and 64 feet); “Best Evolution Product” for the Azimut S8; and the enviable “Yacht of the Year” award for a 107-meter giga yacht, the Benetti FB277.

They are the yachting world’s specialists with regard to mega-sized yachts

To Azimut-Benetti, size matters—after all, size gives way to optimum passenger comfort, room to move around, stability at sea, and a sense of luxury that’s akin to staying in a holiday villa or driving one’s own supercar.

In December of 2018, Azimut-Benetti declared their involvement on 97 mega yacht projects, totaling 3,536 meters (or the length of thirty football fields combined). The company’s headquarters alone measures 100,000 square meters in size and can fit as many as 300 68-foot boats.

Like other Italian brands that are known for their craftsmanship, they invest in their art

Italy is a country already famous for its world-renowned companies that produce sought-after sports cars and fashionable clothing. That same brand of Italian artistry can be seen in the design and construction of Azimut-Benetti’s yachts. The company’s men and women place a high value on quality, attention to detail, and commitment to specialization—knowing that all of these are key ingredients in creating vessels of exceptionally high caliber.

They are the yachting industry’s chief innovators for specialty materials like carbon fiber

Lastly, one of Azimut-Benetti’s greatest strengths is its ability to capitalize on new boatbuilding technologies faster than everyone else. The company is now very much ahead of its competitors in working with carbon fiber, a lightweight but valuable material that’s improved the speed, weight distribution, and stability on their large powerboats.

Azimut-Benetti outdoes other boat builders in leveraging carbon fiber for spacious deck design, speedy boat travel, and above all, pleasurable riding. In fact, ten of Azimut-Benetti’s yachts measuring between 66 feet and 114 feet now incorporate honeycomb-patterned carbon fiber in their flybridges, hardtops, transoms, and other parts.

After earning numerous distinctions and earning worldwide revenues of upwards of USD 700 million, Azimut-Benetti is far from slowing down. Boating enthusiasts everywhere can expect the company to keep making waves on the world stage and to deliver that same award-winning experience to any new powerboat owner!

5 Family-friendly Activities You Can Do on Sepoc Island

October 28, 2019 By FAQ Leave a Comment

Sepoc Island
Image Credit: Pennyworthtravels.com

Sepoc Island is not exactly an island as its name suggests, but it might as well be one because it can only be reached by boat. This white-sand beach in Batangas is located on the western tip of Maricaban Island and is set between a rock outcrop called Sepoc Point and a hill that separates it from the rest of the island. This pristine spot of paradise is a haven for weekend warriors who need a short pause before going back to their daily routine. At the same time, Sepoc Island is also a perfect destination for families who want to spend an uninterrupted day or even just an afternoon in the presence of the people they value the most. The beach offers activities that family members of all ages will find appealing, including:

1. Beach games for the entire family

One of the most prominent features of Sepoc Island is its expansive white beach. The beach here is made up of tiny coral pieces made smooth by time and the ebb and flow of the sea. The beach can accommodate as many as 200 people, so it has plenty of room to spare for families or even a clan reunion. While you may not be able to build detailed sandcastles here, your family has all the space needed for activities that you can do together. You can just relax under the shade of the trees or in the nipa huts, play relay games and team sports, and keep your young ones entertained by digging in the sand. Make full use of this exclusive space while you’re here.

2. Trekking around the beach and sightseeing

This side of Maricaban Island features more than a lovely beach; it also has woodsy areas and slopes where you can stretch your legs for a few minutes. Follow the tree-lined path to the back of the beach to get a great view of the nearby Sombrero Island. You can also take a 15-minute trek to Sepoc Viewpoint where you can see and appreciate the entirety of Sepoc Beach. Along the way, you might get lucky and see local birds. There are also nearby caves that you can visit if you are so inclined.

3. Eating the freshest catch of the day

One of the draws of having a family holiday near the shore is having easy access to fresh seafood — something you can look forward to on your trip to Sepoc Beach. Eagle Point Resort, the resort that manages Sepoc Beach, offers packaged tours that include lunch, and the dishes they serve don’t disappoint. The quality of the food, the serene atmosphere, and the picturesque views will make for one memorable lunch that your family members will look back on with fondness.

4. Snorkeling and diving

A holiday on an uncrowded beach is the best opportunity to help your little ones develop an appreciation for water. The body of water around Maricaban Island is incredibly diverse, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to see fish and other marine animals without straying far from the shore. Prepare your snorkeling gear and show your kids how a responsible visitor should interact with the critters that call the sea home.

5. Paddleboating and other water activities

If your little ones are a little bit nervous in the water, you can try out other water activities, like paddleboarding. It’s a new experience, and it’s a new activity that you can figure out together with a little bit of instruction from the staff. It’s also a great way to get a bit of exercise while you’re on a holiday with the family.

Wrapping Up

It may be a bit difficult to get phone signal on Sepoc Island, but this can be a boon to people who want to disconnect from the rest of the world if only for a few hours. This little piece of paradise is the ideal holiday destination for parents and kids who want to live in the moment, spend quality time together, and create happy memories amidst a scenic backdrop.

CNN Names Palawan One of the World’s Most Beautiful Islands

October 9, 2019 By FAQ Leave a Comment

Palawan, with its numerous white-sand beaches and cruise-worthy caves, was included in CNN Travel’s “10 of the world’s most beautiful islands“, a report released on Sep 24, 2019.

In the past decade, the idyllic island has enjoyed international attention from the foreign press, being named the Most Beautiful Island in the World by Huffington Post in 2014, by Conde Nast Traveler in 2016, and most recently taking second place in Travel+Leisure’s ranking of the World’s Best Islands earlier in the year.

Palawan is an island province in the MIMAROPA region, it is the biggest province in the Philippines in terms of total area of jurisdiction which extends from Mindoro to Borneo. It is made up of Palawan Island other surrounding islands including; the Calamianes Group of Islands (Busuanga Island, Coron Island and Culion Island), Durangan Island (Dulangan), Balabac Island, and Cuyo Islands in the Sulu Sea. Its capital, Puerto Princesa City is also one of the new seven natural wonders of the world. While El Nido-Taytay Managed Resource Protected Area is the biggest marine sanctuary in the country.

Other Islands which made it to the Top 10 are:

  1. Milos, Greece
  2. Bartolomé, Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
  3. Fregate, Seychelles
  4. St. Lucia, Lesser Antilles
  5. Jura, Scotland
  6. Komodo, Indonesia
  7. Senja Island, Norway
  8. Mo’orea, French Polynesia
  9. Kaua’i, United States

AirAsia 70% OFF Promo! Book your flights from Manila, Cebu and Clark

October 8, 2019 By FAQ Leave a Comment

Catch our holiday deals with UP TO 70% OFF SALE when you fly with AirAsia from Manila, Cebu and Clark! Book your flights now to different destinations such as  Cebu, Iloilo, Caticlan, Cagayan De Oro, Tacloban, Puerto Princesa, Davao, Kalibo, Tagbilaran and more.

Book NOW here

Rates are exclusive of Domestic & International Passenger Service Charge, Web Admin Fee/Booking Processing Fee and Country Specific Charges/taxes. Terms and Conditions apply.

Booking Period: October 7 – 13, 2019
Travel Period: October 7, 2019 – April 29, 2020

How to book this AirAsia  Promo?

  • Before you book the promo, make sure to check the Sale Period and the Travel Period. Promo fares are subject to availability – it means that promo seats are LIMITED. If your desired destination and dates is not available, the website will show you the next lowest fare price or you might want to check other dates/destinations.
  • You can visit directly the AirAsia website at www.airasia.com and enter your travel details (flight type, destinations,departure, number of guests traveling. If you are going to choose roundtrip, you need to provide return flight date)
  • You can also call the AirAsia  hotline at +632 722 2742 from 6am – 11pm (GMT+8) Monday to Sunday. You can also  visit the travel agent near you

Celebrate World Tourism Day and fly to International Destinations for only 499!

September 29, 2019 By FAQ Leave a Comment

Seat Sale / Promos

Celebrate World Tourism Day and fly to Domestic and International Destinations for low price.

Quoted DOMESTIC one way base fares are inclusive of 7 kg hand carry baggage allowance, but exclusive of Web Admin Fee, 12% VAT, Terminal Fees and Fuel Surcharge.

Quoted INTERNATIONAL one way fares  are inclusive of 7 kg hand carry baggage allowance, but exclusive of Web Admin Fees for short haul and long haul flights, respectively and Php550 International Terminal Fee and Fuel Surcharge.

Hurry while seats last! Check the remaining number of seats on sale here!

Philippine Destinations

For as low as

P 99

Cagayan De Oro to Dumaguete.

Cebu to Bacolod, Boracay (Caticlan), Butuan, Cagayan De Oro, Calbayog, Camiguin, Clark, Coron (Busuanga), Davao, Dipolog, Dumaguete, General Santos, Iloilo, Kalibo, Legazpi, Ozamiz, Pagadian, Puerto Princesa, Siargao, Surigao, Tacloban, or Zamboanga.

Clark to Bacolod, Bohol, Boracay (Caticlan), Davao, Iloilo, or Puerto Princesa.


For as low as

P 299

Cagayan De Oro to Bohol or Iloilo

Davao to Zamboanga

Iloilo to Puerto Princesa


For as low as

P 499

Davao to Bohol or Cagayan De Oro

Manila to Iloilo

Zamboanga to Cotabato or Tawi-Tawi


For as low as

P 599

Iloilo to General Santos

Manila to Bacolod, Bohol, Cebu, Puerto Princesa, or Tacloban


For as low as

P 699

Davao to Iloilo

Manila to Cauayan (Isabela), Kalibo, or Marinduque


For as low as

P 799

Davao to Bacolod

Manila to Cagayan De Oro, Davao, or Roxas


For as low as

P 899

Manila to Zamboanga


For as low as

P 999

Manila to Dumaguete, Legazpi, San Jose (Mindoro), or Tuguegarao


For as low as

P 1,099

Manila to Caticlan, Masbate, Naga, Romblon (Tablas), or Virac


For as low as

P 1,199

Manila to Dipolog, General Santos, or Ozamiz


For as low as

P 1,399

Manila to Cotabato or Pagadian


For as low as

P 1,499

Manila to Coron (Busuanga) or Butuan


For as low as

P 2,499

Manila to Basco or Siargao


SALE PERIOD: UP TO September 30, 2019 OR UNTIL SEATS LAST | TRAVEL PERIOD: January 01, 2020 – March 31, 2020

International Destinations

For as low as

P 332

Manila to Kota Kinabalu


For as low as

P 499

Manila to Guangzhou (Canton), Shanghai, or Xiamen


For as low as

P 799

Cebu to Macau


For as low as

P 864

Manila to Seoul (Incheon)


For as low as

P 899

Manila to Macau


For as low as

P 964

Cebu to Seoul (Incheon)


For as low as

P 999

Clark to Hong Kong or Macau

Manila to Bandar Seri Begawan, Fukuoka, Hong Kong, or Osaka


For as low as

P 1,032

Manila to Singapore


For as low as

P 1,199

Manila to Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, or Taipei


For as low as

P 1,499

Cebu to Hong Kong

Clark to Tokyo (Narita)

Iloilo to Hong Kong

Manila to Bangkok


For as low as

P 1,532

Manila to Kuala Lumpur


For as low as

P 1,799

Manila to Jakarta


How to book this Cebu Pacific Promo:

  • Before you book the promo, make sure to check the Sale Period and the Travel Period. Promo fares are subject to availability – it means that promo seats are LIMITED. If your desired destination and dates are not available, the website will show you the next lowest fare price or you might want to check other dates/destinations.
  • You can visit directly the Cebu Pacific website at www.cebupacificair.com and enter your travel details (flight type, destinations, departure, number of guests traveling. If you are going to choose roundtrip, you need to provide return flight date)
  • NO PROMO CODE NEEDED for this promo. Cebu Pacific Promo Codes are only used usually for special sale for VISA or MASTER CARD Holder only. For regular promos, you don’t have to put promo codes.
  • You can also call the Cebu Pacific hotline at (02) 70-20-888 in Manila or (32) 230-8888 in Cebu or visit the travel agent near you.

Why Is Buying a Repossessed Car a Good Move?

July 30, 2019 By FAQ Leave a Comment

In the market for a car and looking to get the most value out of your hard-earned money? Most people tend to think that buying new is the best option, but you can save a good amount of cash by looking at pre-owned cars. If you do the research diligently and aren’t afraid of asking the seller some tough questions, you could get a relatively good deal on something perfectly respectable. Another way of saving on a car purchase is by looking at bank-repossessed cars—these are vehicles that have been taken back by banks because their owners can no longer afford the monthly payments, or cars that have been used as collateral for a different loan that a debtor is no longer able to repay. In any case, buying a repossessed car can be one of the smartest financial choices you’ll ever make. Let’s break down the reasons why:

Repossessed Cars Are Cheaper

Banks typically aren’t looking to turn a profit when they sell cars that have been repossessed. They still have to pay for storage and maintenance costs, and cars sitting idle in a lot are not only useless to them, they also tend to cost the bank extra for keeping them around. As a result of this, you can get a car in like-new or even practically brand-new condition at a discount of 20 to 40%: that can be up to 200,000 pesos or more in savings. The down payment for repossessed units is also much lower than when buying new; a car’s value begins to depreciate almost as soon as it leaves the dealership and will only go lower over time. You’ll still have to pay a down payment of 20 to 30%, but since the car is already cheaper, you won’t have to shell out as much.

Hassle-Free Payment Options

One of the most frustrating things about buying a new car is the sheer amount of paperwork involved before you can drive away with it. Banks know that they lose more money the longer it takes for a repossessed unit to sell, so they cut through the complications and typically offer you the choice of paying for one with cash up front, or enrolling it into an auto loan program. Going with cash means that you won’t have to pay interest over time, but it can be a huge chunk of money to put down all in one go. Auto loans take the pressure off by allowing you to make incremental monthly payments on the car instead, which can be easier on you. Whichever option fits your budget best, it’s nice to be able to take the vehicle home without having to read through too many documents. 

Safe and Secure Transactions

When buying a repossessed unit from a bank, you can rest easy knowing that the vehicle was not acquired illegally, and all of its papers and certifications are in good order. You’ll never have to worry about being defrauded, and you can be assured that your payments will always be safe.

Used but Not Abused

When a car seller puts his vehicle on the market, it’s usually because he’s already gotten himself a new one. Most vehicle owners tend to hold off on replacing their cars if they can continue to put up with its issues; the bottom line is that you never really know what condition the car is actually in until you’ve driven it for a while and discovered its problems, and by then it’s usually too late. On the other hand, repossessed cars go to the banks because their previous owners are no longer able to keep them, which means that most of them haven’t been ridden to death or neglected for too long. Of course, you should be a conscientious buyer and check for signs of flooding, accidental damage, or anything that might give you cause to believe that the vehicle is in poorer shape than advertised. Banks typically auction out newer models and have proof of the car’s mileage though, so you could get a car that’s in excellent shape and was released fairly recently for a fraction of the cost of buying from a dealer.

Summary

Buying a repossessed car isn’t without its risks, but if you know what to look for and are willing to put in the legwork, you could drive home with one that you can be proud of. Keep an open mind but arm yourself with as much information as possible, and don’t be afraid to ask questions before reaching for your wallet. Before long, you’ll be driving the car of your dreams.

The Ultimate List of Must-See Places in Metro Manila

July 23, 2019 By FAQ Leave a Comment

Touring the Philippines is not just about the beaches. Of course, these are wonderful places to visit, but there’s also something to be said about exploring the metro. What’s more, if you’re staying in cheap hotels near NAIA, you can maximize your vacation with all the places you can visit. Check out this list of must-see, bang-for-your-buck places when you visit Metro Manila in the Philippines

Yexel’s Toy Museum

South of Metro Manila, in the city of Las Pinas, you can find Yexel’s Toy Museum. The 4-story building is filled from front-to-back and top-to-bottom with a vast collection of toys, acquired through the years by the owner, Yexel Sebastian. From Disney characters to Barbie dolls, from anime and cartoon characters to comic book heroes, the museum features over 10,000 individual toys, busts, and figures.

One of the main attractions of Yexel’s Toy Museum is a collection of life-sized Iron Man suits, from Mark I to Mark XLII. There’s also a lot of Star Wars and Avengers collectibles to see, if you’re a fan of these franchises. You can also see an 18-foot bust of Optimus Prime, complete with light effects, in the museum. It’s considered the biggest in Asia, so you might want to check it out and take a photo.

Binondo

Binondo, the thriving Chinatown in the heart of the city of Manila, is the oldest Chinatown in the world. It’s been bustling with commerce even before the Spanish arrived on Philippine shores, although it was officially established in 1594. It was originally intended for Chinese immigrants who got baptized into Catholicism, but has since been transformed into a thriving business district.

You may not notice it due to the colorful establishments and busy streets, but Binondo is actually a hilly area. Its name is derived from “binondoc” which translates to “mountainous.” Binondo is most well-known as a haven for those looking for an authentic Chinese food experience. From holes in the wall to family-style restaurants, you certainly won’t leave this place hungry.

National Museum of Natural History

Opened in 2018, the National Museum of Natural History is the newest addition to the National Museum Complex located in the city of Manila. The “Tree of Life” elevator, the central feature of the atrium, is an attraction in and of itself. You’ll probably find flocks of tourists taking selfies at the foyer, where a replica of one the largest saltwater crocodile specimens ever discovered can be found. The rest of the museum comprises six floors with various galleries that showcase just how diverse the Philippines’ ecosystems and natural resources are.

The best thing about the National Museum of Natural History (aside from the wonderful exhibits)? Entrance is absolutely free! Locals, foreigners, students, senior citizens, children—absolutely everyone can enter the museum free of charge. Just make sure to follow the rules! While you’re in the area, you may also want to drop by the other establishments in the complex: the National Planetarium, the National Museum of Fine Arts, and the National Museum of Anthropology. The Rizal Park is also nearby.

Manila Ocean Park

Manila Ocean Park
Inside Manila Ocean Park

Manila Ocean Park’s largest attraction is the Oceanarium, which houses about 14,000 marine creatures found in the Philippines and Southeast Asia. A 25-meter section of the area is dedicated to a 220° curved walkway tunnel, where you can see hundreds of sea creatures swimming around. There’s also a bi-level viewing facility where you can see sharks and stingrays. An interesting fact about the Oceanarium is that the water in its displays comes from Manila Bay. Through a special process, the water is filtered and salinized to make sure it can sustain marine life.

Despite its name, Manila Ocean Park also has other attractions that feature birds, bunnies, hamsters, insects, spiders, and frogs, among others. There’s also a bird show and a sea lion show, as well as an augmented reality interaction and even fun neon-lit pedal cars. There’s also a fireworks and water show every night at 6:30 PM.

Intramuros

Intramuros Manila
The walled city of Intramuros in Manila.

The Walled City is one of the oldest districts in Manila, with Spanish-era influences clearly visible in the facades of buildings both old and new. Visiting Intramuros also puts you in the midst of various tourist spots, including Fort Santiago, Baluarte de San Diego, the San Agustin Church, and the Manila Cathedral. It will take you about 2 to 3 hours to see everything in Intramuros, so you may want to consider renting bamboo bikes from Bambike Ecotours. You can rent a bike on a per hour rate and explore on your own, or book a guided tour with Bambike so you can also learn more about the Walled City.

Bonifacio Global City + Mind Museum

Bonifacio Global City or BGC is located in the city of Taguig. It’s an urban enclave and business district in Metro Manila, with towering office and commercial buildings, tree-lined walkways, and various shopping and dining establishments. However, BGC is more than just a concrete jungle. It’s also a haven for art. Walk around and you’ll see large-scale installations, wall murals, and other works of art. Like in Intramuros, you can choose to tour on your own or book a guided tour.

Once you’re done with the outdoors, drop by the Mind Museum. It’s a non-profit project of the Bonifacio Art Foundation established as “world-class home for science.” Apart from galleries and exhibitions, the Mind Museum also features interactive workshops. There’s also an outdoor area called Science in the Park, as well as a botanical garden.

Tiendesitas + Greenhills Shopping Center

Greenhills Shopping Center

If you’re in need of some retail therapy, you may want to drop by Tiendesitas in Pasig and Greenhills in San Juan. You can find Philippine-made handicrafts, antique furniture, souvenirs, even plants and pet supplies in Tiendesitas. There are also some cultural shows during the weekends. Meanwhile, Greenhills Shopping Center is a favorite of bargain hunters. It’s also one of the best places to get genuine South Sea pearls in the country.

Maginhawa Street + Teachers Village

Up north in Quezon City lies Maginhawa Street and Teacher’s Village. These locales have been transformed over the years as food and art districts. If you’re looking for authentic Filipino food, you can find food parks and holes in the wall in these areas. There are also resto-bars and cafes that serve traditional and fusion-style food. For those who are looking for something more exotic, you can also try Pinoy street food like kwek kwek (hard-boiled quail eggs deep-fried in an orange batter), isaw (barbecued chicken intestines), betamax (barbecued congealed pork or chicken blood), and balut (boiled duck’s egg, around 14 to 20 days of age).

Aside from dining establishments and food carts, you can also find bookstores, souvenir shops, galleries, and other artistic hubs in the area. Another locale, Cubao Expo or Cubao X, is also located in Quezon City. This hub attracts artists, skaters, musicians, and foodies who enjoy a laid-back, vintage vibe. You can find locally made arts and crafts, apparel, instruments, and various other knickknacks both retro and modern.

Once you’re done sightseeing, drop by Manila Bay to witness the glorious sunset. It truly is a must-see! Afterwards, you can continue your explorations by finding the best bars, speakeasies, and clubs for a buzzing nightlife.

Best Things to Do in Sagada

May 13, 2019 By FAQ Leave a Comment

When you ask a Filipino about their dream trip, you’re sure that most of them will choose to go to Sagada as a part of their lists. This Philippine travel destination, unlike other crowded tourist hot spots, offers the quiet charms of nature and the fascinating allure of culture and tradition.

Sagada is located in the Cordillera Mountains in Mountain Province and is home to over 11,000 population. In the past, only the brave and daring backpackers had the chance to experience its beauty but thanks to social media, many people have discovered that the challenging journey to this paradise is all worth it.

If you’re finally planning to make your way to this sanctuary in the mountains, you’ve come to the right place. This article will tell you everything that you should know about how to create an unforgettable itinerary. So what are the best things to do in Sagada? Here they are.

1. Experience the afterlife and check out the Hanging Coffins – up close.

The hanging coffins in the Echo Valley are perhaps one of the most popular destinations in the area. Many of those who are either curious about the local’s funeral traditions or just want to see something different visit this solemn place.

Hanging the dead on cliffs is an ancient Sagadian tradition. However, only a select few locals had the opportunity of honoring their dead through this tradition because of some standards and qualifications that they had to adhere to. Tourists who want to reach this place can either hire a local guide or join group trips for better convenience.

2. Activate your full-on explorer mode and go spelunking inside the Sumaguing Cave.

Also called the “Big Cave”, the location is known as a former refuge for Filipino soldiers during the Japanese occupation. Many travelers visit this place not only because of its historical value but also for its challenging slopes and tunnels.

Exploring the cave is an adventure on itself because it is an expansive cave network. And anyone who dares to choose this for their itinerary will be greeted by fascinating stalactites and stalagmites.  The destination is located along the South Road in Sagada. Before choosing this for your trip, make sure you’re physically ready to take on whatever thrilling experience that this place has to offer.

3. Hike and witness the majestic wonders of the Bomod-Ok Falls.

Almost a few hours away from Bangaan is Bomod-Ok Falls, one of the best places to be when in Sagada. This is the home where you can witness the majestic dance of the cascading waters coming from the mountains. The natural pool beneath it is extremely cold and perfect for soothing the sores of a few kilometers of hiking. In short, the trip is always worth the hike and sweat.

Trekking to this part of Sagada requires a paid guide and a PHP 10.00 registration pay collected by the locals. From your accommodation, vans can be rented out for PHP 600 (as of 2018 data) so that they will take you to the jump-off point.

4. Capture picture-perfect sceneries and walk along the rice terraces.

Of course, Mountain Province’s rice terraces is one of the most popular destinations in the area. In fact, most people have been attracted to visit Sagada because of this natural gem. This strategically designed terrain has served as the region’s primary source of rice, their staple food, and the same mechanism has been used not just in Sagada but also in other parts of the country.

Batad’s rice terraces may be more popular than Sagada’s carefully carved mountainsides but it doesn’t mean that it does not offer the same grandeur. Take out your camera, pose for a selfie or capture the magical mountain view to remind you of such a beautiful moment.

5. Experience the art and history of Sagada and visit the Ganduyan Museum.

This small yet valuable museum introduces Kankanaey’s culture through the displayed artifacts, furniture, accessories, utensils, sculptures, traditional clothes, and a lot more. The name of the museum is actually the traditional Kankanaey name of Sagada.

The woman behind this cultural sanctuary is Christina Aben. If you’re lucky, Aben herself will be your personal museum guide and will tell you a myriad of things about the region’s history, culture and traditions. Adding this to your itinerary will help you understand Sagada better, especially from the perspective of an expert who knows the true story of this mystical place.

6. Experience the flavors of Sagada through a humble culinary journey.

Restaurants in Sagada may not be as grand as the places you find in major cities. In fact, they do not even fit the definition of a “huge restaurant” because of their size and list of menu, but they are a culinary gem on their own.

Visiting Sagada should also be a journey of experiencing its culinary culture. Delicacies such as the patupat rice, blueberry muffins, bugnay wine, and a lot more, can be tasted and savored at affordable prices. Food places such as the Salt and Pepper Diner, Vincent’s Coffee and Grill, and other local food stops have all unique dishes that they are proud of.

7. Just walk around town and create your own unique memories in Sagada.

Most people travel to see places but there are others who go to the world’s most beautiful towns to experience the different cultures and perspectives of the local community. When in Sagada, you can do just that. Once you’re already full and think that you have visited enough places to call it a day, why don’t you just walk around town and get the real feel of the place?

Who knows, you might meet new people who will not only help you get to know the real Sagada but will also give you a new perspective through their own travel stories. Don’t be shy to meet friends or even talk to the locals. After all, the best travel experience is when you remember the places, the faces, and their stories, and get to remember them for the rest of your life.

Sagada may be one of the best places that you can visit in the Philippines. As a final note, make sure that before journeying into this mountainous region, you have to know the rules and responsibilities that you have as a tourist and as a traveler. Good luck and have fun!

Best Floating Water Park in the Philippines

March 5, 2019 By FAQ Leave a Comment

Summer is almost here and many people have started planning for their yearly family getaways. While there a lot of vacation options that have become popular over the years, going to the beach has always been the most preferred activities for Filipinos.

However, having a great time under the sun has also evolved into something more fun and engaging. Aside from just sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, or building sand castles, there is an emerging concept that is slowly making its way to mainstream traveling: spending your summer at a floating water park. If you have no idea what a floating water park is or if you’ve already read about this new adventure online, this article will help you start arranging your travel itinerary for this year’s vacation.

Here are the best floating water parks in the Philippines that you should visit at least once a year.

Inflatable Island

Location: Lower Kalaklan, Olongapo, Zambales

Inflatable Island is an awesome travel destination that you should check off your bucket list. Bring your kids or the entire gang to experience a literally floating playground located in one of the country’s prime destination, Zambales.

The area is over 4,100 square meters and it offers a variety of inflatable structures such as swings, towers, bridges, slides, as well as human launchers. It’s a destination that will give you a unique experience and will surely make you feel like a child again. Run, jump, dive, slide, swim, and be creative!

Kamia Bay Island Adventure

Image Credit: ABS-CBN News

Location: Puerto Princesa, Palawan

Aside from the underground river boat road and the island-hopping adventure, Puerto Princesa in Palawan has something new to offer: an inflatable aqua-adventure. The venue offers several packages that cover exclusive access to many activities and adventures. Eco tours, buffet lunch, round trip transfer, and many more can be availed depending on the package that you have chosen.

Additionally, the packages can either offer limited or unlimited use of the facilities within the inflatable water park.

Club Balai Isabel’s Aqua Park

Image Credit: Juanderful Pinoy

Location: Talisay, Batangas

Club Balai Isabel’s Aqua Park is an all-white haven for beach lovers and adventure seekers. Located in Batangas, a 2-hour destination from Manila, it is one of the best places to enjoy your family vacation. Why? Imagine having a full panoramic view of the Taal Lake and its relaxing waters?

Whether you are just a walk-in guest or a checked-in patron, you can easily have access to this floating island park. There are basic rates per hour and if you want your lunch and snacks to go with the experience, you can pay an additional fee and everything will be there.

Waterpark Adventure Philippines

Location: Nasugbu-Ternate Highway, Nasugbu, Batangas

Another floating water park destination that can be found in Batangas is the Waterpark Adventure Philippines. The location has a festive theme that celebrates the tropical colors of red, green, and yellow. The most unique structures are the inflatable palm trees that can be found scattered around the area.

Aside from just chilling and enjoying this floating wonder, there are several activities that your family can choose from, including kayaking, snorkeling, free diving, jet ski ride, jetovator, skimboarding, and a lot more. If you’re into water sports, you can take a ride at their for-rent jet skis. Sports enthusiasts can also take part in a literally larger-than-life experience with its Giant Volleyball.

For weekend warriors, you don’t have to worry about the safety of your valuables. The management provides beach locker rooms at reasonable rates. Additionally, shower rooms are also available.

SandBox’s Splash Tub

Location: Alviera, Porac Access Road, Porac, Pampanga

Want to add more thrill to your summer adventure? Then SandBox’s Splash Tub is the place for you. The area is a 1,200 square meter floating obstacle course that will surely challenge your sense of adventure and competition. The destination is meant for a group of friends or even perfect for team-building activities.

For multiple groups seeking adventure, join the Aqua Dash, a race that is lined with obstacles and inflatable terrains that can test your speed, agility, wit, and stamina. There are a total of 11 obstacles that highlights a Challenger Course (for adults only). Included in it are the Ball Traverse, the Wreckers, the Over and Under, and so much more.  For kids, there are also available water courses that are designed to challenge and entertain.

Buri Inflatable Water Park

Location: Buri Island, Barangay Estaka, Catbalogan, Samar

If you are in the central part of the Philippines in the Visayas region, Buri’s Inflatable Water Park has a lot to offer especially if you’re looking for a fun and not so expensive summer getaway. Having some thrilling activities on its giant slides will lead you into its clear waters. Trampolines at the water park will both excite and elate you, no matter how young or old you are.

If you want to have some cool and unique photos for your Facebook or Instagram accounts, there are floaties or floating structures (gigantic donuts) that are perfect to add some fun and colorful elements to your shots. Other activities that can be availed here are banana boat rides and Zorb balls rolls.

For just 199 pesos, you can have the best of what this destination can offer. For a fun Zorb ball experience, 15 minutes will just cost you PHP 150 (rates as of 2019).

MB COVE

Location: Brgy. Calayo, Nasugbu, Batangas

Whether it’s for a big family outing or for corporate team-building activity, MB Cover in Batangas can give everyone an adventure-filled summer experience. The venue is a 4,000 square meter resort that is home to an inflatable water park with facilities and structures designed to help bring out the adventurous side of everyone.

For guests from Manila and nearby cities, the area can be reached through public transport or with a private car. Parking areas allow a safe and secure place for your vehicles.  If you want to explore more places during your vacation, note that this place is just conveniently located just 48 kilometers away from Tagaytay.

Hopefully, these places can give you an idea of the new and latest summer getaway escapades with your friends and family. Have fun and have a great time!

Restaurants with Unique Private Rooms in the Philippines

February 21, 2019 By FAQ Leave a Comment

Food is one of those things in life that can easily bring together a group of strangers and turn them into a party of friends. In the Philippines, eating and drinking is a part of its culture of camaraderie and friendship, strengthening bonds and even rekindling lost connections. That is why, regardless of the occasion and no matter how small or grand the celebration is, everyone’s favorite Pinoy and foreign dishes will always be present.

While many Filipinos in the province are used to cooking and preparing a feast at home, residents living in the country’s biggest cities don’t have the luxury of time and space to accommodate a hungry crowd. The great thing is, there are different food spots and dining hubs where they can equally have a great time. For every type of celebration and a wide variety of cravings, there are restaurants in the Philippines that can offer the best dining experience for family and friends.

Aside from a wide selection of dishes and an enthusiastic wait staff, the following restaurants can offer something that a typical food place doesn’t have: privacy and exclusive customer service.

1. Casa Roces, Manila City

Image Credit: HECHO AYER – WordPress.com

If you want to experience Old Manila, Casa Roces is the perfect place to dine and just reminisce the past with your friends or family. The restaurant used to be a heritage house, but this is not the only reason why this place is a rare find. Casa Roces is open daily from 8AM to 10PM and is situated at 1153 JP Laurel corner Aguado Street, San Miguel, Manila.

For one, Casa Roces is actually located within the compounds of the most powerful house in the country: Malacañan Palace, the residence of the Philippine president himself. Secondly, aside from the native-themed menu, there are available function rooms on the second floor of this beautiful restaurant/café. All these rooms are named after the country’s past and present news publications: The Tribune, La Vanguardia, The Manila Times, Liwayway, and The Daily Mirror.

Some rooms can accommodate 20 people and others have the capacity to entertain 6-15 guests. The prices per room will vary.

2. Wildflour Café + Bakery, Makati City

Baked goods and pastries aren’t the only things in the menu of this famous Wildflour Café Rockwell branch. Among all its partner stores around Metro Manila, this particular location has an upper floor where guests can reserve in advance.

This private room can accommodate a maximum of 35 people, perfect for a birthday party or a baby shower with the entire family. For a more private experience that involves only an intimate number of guests, Wildflour also has smaller private rooms in its other branch at the Bonifacio Global City (BGC) in Taguig.

What’s on the menu? American, Korean, and other western and eastern delights are served in this charming café. You can check out their complete menu online to know more about what they have to offer.

3. Gerry’s Jeepney, Quezon City

Image Credit: coleysjustsaying.blogspot.com

For a less formal event that requires a unique, cultural experience of the past and present Pinoy culture, Gerry’s Jeepney is what you are looking for. So what is so special about this place? It offers one of the most genuine and unique private rooms in the Philippines.

Dubbed as “The Jeepney”, it literally promises what it’s named after: a full experience inside an actual-but not moving- Filipino commuter jeepney. The food and the theme are centered on the owner’s love for the masa or lower class, celebrating the simplicity and authenticity of a truly Filipino gastronomic experience.

While waiting for the boodle feast (the Filipino military style of eating meals in which all the dishes are laid out on a freshly cut banana leaf), guests are provided with board games to make the experience more fun. Each private room, a.k.a. private jeepney can accommodate eight people.

This place has become so popular that booking a reservation beforehand should be part of your plan.

4. Antonio’s, Tagaytay City

Image Credit: JuliasyKim

Not all the best private dining restaurants can be found in Metro Manila. In fact, if you’re a true foodie, you would know that there are a lot of rare and unique restaurants around the country, many of which are located in rural and less-urbanized areas. And one of them is Antonio’s in Tagaytay.

If you were to ask food critiques, Antonio’s is probably one of the best restaurants not just in the country but also in Asia, and this is the reason why it’s a special place for true foodies, celebrities, and international food bloggers.  

The place is strictly by reservation, with operating hours that start at exactly 5:30 in the evening. Additionally, the restaurant implements a smart casual dress code, even for younger guests. The location has private venues for exclusive gatherings, but even if you can’t book these spots in advance, dining in this Spanish-inspired gastronomic haven is a gift in itself.

What’s on the menu? Antonio’s set menu includes a full-course meal of delectable tastes inspired by the classic and traditional flavors. Here, food is consumed not just as sustenance but as a surreal and one-of-a-kind culinary adventure.

5. Café Piansa, Marikina City

This unique restaurant may not fit the definition of “private dining” but the experience itself, depending on your taste for adventure, can be both interesting and bizarre. Why? The theme of this culinary spot is actually inspired by a typical prison. Yes, you read that right.

Café Piansa is an Italian restaurant that has jail cells as its semi-private rooms where guests can dine in and be imprisoned in the flavors of what this unique place can offer: delectable flavors of steaks, pasta, and other dishes that truly fit the definition of a perfect final meal.

The restaurant is not for the faint of heart as it can be quite intimidating to anyone who is afraid to try new things and experiences. A full view of the place reveals prison bars enclosing several tables, and other portions of the building reveal an execution chamber with an electric chair to complete the ensemble.  

These are just a few of the many unique restaurants in the Philippines that you should visit soon. Hopefully, this article has helped add more entries to your bucket list. Remember that if you want to truly experience the Filipino culture, don’t be afraid to open yourself to the most genuine and even the most bizarre culinary experience out there. Bon appétit and have a great time!  


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